“We put no stumbling block in anyone’s path so that our ministry will not be discredited. Rather, as servants of God we commend ourselves in every way; in great endurance; in troubles, hardships and distresses; in beatings, imprisonments and riots; in hard work, sleepless nights and hunger; in purity, understanding, patience and kindness; in the Holy Spirit and in sincere love; in truthful speech and in the power of God; with weapons of righteousness in the right hand and in the left; through glory and dishonor, bad report and good report; genuine, yet regarded as imposters; known, yet regarded as unknown; dying, and yet we live on; beaten, and yet not killed; sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; poor, yet making many rich; having nothing, and yet possessing everything.” (2 Corinthians 6:3-10).

Wow! Paul’s testimony is amazing. A lot of words, but to sum it up, no matter what we are going through we must make sure that we are reflecting Christ in all that we do. Paul considered what his actions conveyed to people in every situation that he encountered. He knew that as a believer, he was a minister of God. His actions spoke volumes to all those who saw him – believers and unbelievers. We should take Paul’s words very seriously. Wouldn’t it be a shame if our actions influenced someone’s decision to reject Christ, rather than to accept Him? Be careful of how you react and what you do and say. The Bible reveals to us that Christ became angry at times, but, His anger was considered righteous anger – a reaction to the injustice in the world. It was not a selfish anger, and bitterness was not something that He harbored. There will be times in your life that you become angry and hurt. It is inevitable because we live in a hurting and broken world. Even when watching the evening news we realize that senseless crimes, terrorist attacks, threats of war, natural disasters, poverty and homelessness can leave us upset and discouraged. It is in those times that we need to draw upon Christ’s strength and remember that He loves us and His justice will prevail. It is also during those times that we must encourage one another and pray for unity in the Spirit of Christ. Continue to be the person that He desires for you to be and God will handle the rest.Daily Challenge
Don’t be a stumbling block for someone. Let your words and actions reflect your love for Christ and His people. If there are times that you encounter difficult situations today, place them in God’s hands and allow His love to flow through you. Loving people is a command from God. It’s easy to love our family and friends. But, it is more difficult to love our enemies. Accept this challenge today…and, share the love of Christ with all people. Let them see Christ in you!Prayer for the Day
Father, I know that I have disappointed you at times because of my words and actions that did not reflect you. Please forgive me, for I am truly sorry. Lord, no matter what situations I encounter today, please help me to react in ways that are pleasing to you. Help me to let go of situations that I cannot control and allow you to deal with them. Lord, I want to reflect you in all that I do. I love you. Amen.